Stevan Ridley ditches Patriots, to sign with Jets

Believe it or not, Stevan Ridley is now a New York Jet, with the team adding the free agent running back to its stable on Wednesday.

The announcement was made by Wesley Spencer, Ridley's agent, early on Wednesday evening via the agent's Twitter account. The former New England Patriots running back was limited to six games last year with ACL and MCL tears but he's been a productive running back throughout his career as he's set to enter his fifth season in the league.

Ridley's best season came in 2012 when he topped 1,200 yards rushing and had 12 rushing touchdowns. He's also decent as a pass-catching back as well, a skillset that will be useful in offensive coordinator Chain Gailey's spread offense.

He becomes the second prominent member of the Patriots to bolt this offseason for the Jets, joining cornerback Darrelle Revis on the roster of the green and white.

The signing of Ridley caps off a busy day for the Jets, who also signed defensive end Leger Douzable to a deal, with sources telling Metro New York that it is a one-year contract. In addition, the Jets made official the signing of veteran linebacker Erin Henderson as well, making a low-risk, high-reward deal for a player with off the field concerns.

JETS NOTES

→ The Jets will be hosting a Pro Day at their facility on Thursday and several local products will be featured. Metro New York has learned that three local products: Cole Farrand (linebacker, Maryland), Kevin Haplea (tight end, Florida State) and Lorenzo Waters (safety, Rutgers) will be in attendance.

–> Fundraising to send Jets fan Louie Gonzalez to MetLife Stadium for the home opener has pushed beyond $6,000. Gonzalez, who suffers from a rare brain disease and whose family was told he would likely live life as a vegetable, is a rabid Jets fan living in Florida. On Sunday, Metro New York told the story of Gonzalez, once pronounced legally dead, who now walks and talks as part of his remarkable comeback.